When Coach Greg Ditz (7th season) entered the summer workouts he had big shoes to fill at the Quarterback position with Michael Sheehan headed to Catawba College. Enter stage right; Sophomore Tariq Lane. As an underclassman, Coach Ditz knew there would be a learning curve for the young man in a tough conference, stacked with talent.
Fast forward to Week 4-after a tough 7-6 loss on the road opening night, Tariq has led the Laney Bucs to three straight wins by using both the ground game and the air attack. He’s completed 30 of 54 pass attempts for nearly 400 yards, while connecting on seven TD’s passes to only one interception. His favorite target has been Carlos Mack (10 catches, 209yds.) Tariq has also used his legs to get into the end zone six times this year.
The sophomore gave a big shout out to his older teammates for helping him get comfortable under center, specifically three year starter in Junior Colt Culler, and Senior Guard/DE Larry Williams. “Tariq’s in his playbook, he’s absorbing more and more, Coach (Ditz) is expanding the play calling as we go along and (he) keeps progressing. He’s doing a great job in taking what Coach is giving him, and executing.” Laney D coordinator Coach Yeoman said.
The Bucs travels to Rocky Mount Friday to face (2-2) Northern Nash. Kickoff is set for 7:30pm.
